Madison Mueller Releases New Music that Hits The Sweet Spot
Madison Mueller
Madison Mueller Releases New Music that Hits The Sweet Spot
With a rustic intro which remotely resembles a folk-indie-rock shuffle before it unfolds into a very satisfying groove, taking Madison Mueller’s brand new single, ‘Sweet Bitterness’ right into that sweet spot.
‘Sweet Bitterness’, due for release this Wednesday 28th April is one she should be extremely proud of! A clean production, great song and Maddie’s undeniable unique and instantly recognisable vocals hit’s the mark yet again for this talented young lady.
If you’re familiar with Madison Mueller, then you would have followed her journey thus far, observing and enjoying her previous works watching her grow.
This one in particular, pleasantly holds onto the indie feel while incorporating a commercial sound which should be well accepted and snapped up for FM radio.
Produced by 25-time gold and platinum talent, Michael Jack along with Madison Mueller, it is so nice to hear that the sound of Maddie has not been lost, but pleasantly enhanced.
So, to all Maddie’s existing fans, there’s no need to worry, you will be into this one within a minute of playing the song!
Michael Jack brought some well-known musicians on the single which include: Davide Direnzo on Drums, Ed Roman on Bass, ‘High String’ acoustic guitar by Chris Tomchak, while the mastering by Peter Letros all added to this marvellous track.
Along with the obvious vocals, Maddie also plays Acoustic guitar and keyboards.
Make sure you listen to it now! You will love it 🙂
‘Ray of Hope’ is a simple, yet inspirational ballad of keeping hope in dark times and how your friends can help you through.
Sung by Tessa Libreri with music by Thomas Libreri, (the award-winning Australian husband and wife duo known as Destiny Band Oz) with lyrics by fellow artist and friend, Chris Lee, from Virginia USA. Drums by Darryn Farrugia; guitar and bass by Thomas Libreri; piano by Ron Armstrong and sound production by Chris Gale.
Destiny Band Oz has achieved numerous number #1, top #5 and top #10 Australian and International chart hits and won multiple major Australian and International awards since their first release in 2017.
Their latest July single, ‘Slice of Heaven‘ has been charting for over 14 weeks now, reaching #4 in Australia nd top10 on several local and international charts. Their latest award in August 2020 was the 2020 International Singer-Songwriter Association ‘International Entertainer of the Year’ which follows Destiny Band Oz also winning the‘2019 ISSA International Band of the Year’
Other notable Destiny Band Oz awards include:
*2019 Independent Country Music Awards Most Popular Country Duo
*2019 Traditional Country Music Awards of Australia Top 10 Album (for their ‘Changes’ album)
*2019 Gold Medallion Media Award Collaboration of the Year (Tessa Libreri and Gary Ellis duet)
*2019 Tasmanian Independent Country Music Awards National Country Artist of the Year
*2018 Tasmanian Independent Country Music Awards National Country Band of the Year
*2018 Gold Medallion Media Award Duo or Group of the Year
*2017 Overall #1 song for 2017 on the Official Tasmanian chart
*2018-2019 x 4 Australian Songwriter Association song award placings
*2018-2020 – Numerous international song and artist awards
Destiny Band Oz’s original songs have strong family and personal influences
and are a blend of country, rock and soul style music. They have so farrecorded 3 albums: ‘Changes’, ‘Makin Music’ and ‘Take Me Back in Time’
And 2 EPs: ‘From the Heart’ and ‘Special Songs’ – with more new music on the way!
Destiny Band Oz’s music is available for digital download or streaming
from all major online stores (iTunes, Spotify, Google Play etc.)
Hard copy CDs via mail order through their website:
BVSMV, A Lush Form of Electronic Music That’s Dreamy, Retro and Well Polished
BVSMV – Escapism
Triplicate Records is on a roll recently – compilation albums Green Shift and Red Shift, along with releases from Beefus B, Suncastle and more have been consistently excellent. Released on September 4, “Escapism” by Milwaukee-based producer BVSMV, is yet another fine addition to the label’s catalogue.
Broadly best described as synthwave, BVSMV makes a lush form of electronic music that is dreamy, retro and well polished. From the wistful first bars of opening track “Daybreak”, through the neon-drenched nostalgia of “Quantum Variations”, to the shimmering synths of the closer, “System Testing”, this is an EP that is immediately listenable.
I must admit, that despite being a fan of most electronic music, the synthwave sound is one that I don’t generally pay much attention to. The pink, blue and black aesthetic and the repetition of sounds I first heard as the credits rolled in eighties action movies mostly leaves me cold. BVSMV moves beyond the formulas here though, adding more to the sound than I have heard before, and in so doing, manages to create something that is both familiar and new.
For these reasons, I suggest seeking this album out. Available now on Triplicate Records, “Escapism” is well worth your time.
catchy, melodius Folk Music with Lyrics Of Substance from Brook Kelly
Brooke Kelly – Sun Gilded Clouds and the Angry Sea
I have said before that the music available in the world is best compared to an iceberg – what we hear on radio and in the charts is merely the tip – there is so much more to be found below the surface. All it takes is a small amount of effort to seek it out.
So it was that I discovered the wonderful EP, “Sun Gilded Clouds and the Angry Sea” by West Australian Artist, Brooke Kelly, whilst searching the artist-friendly platform that is Bandcamp. The music on offer here mixes alt-country, folk and elements of rock to produce a set of five tracks that demonstrate strong song-writing and superb production. Acoustic guitars and brushed drums form the backbone of the sound, and organs and cellos add subtle flourishes.
Over the top of this are catchy melodies, delicate harmonies and lyrics of substance – lyrics that seem to go to the heart of what it means to be human. Favorites for me were the introspection of “Getting Old” (“I’m getting old and so are you”) and the sweeping strings of the closing, title track.
So, to paraphrase the songwriter, “let us be cultured, cunning and wise” and support this artist. Dig deeper and be richly rewarded when you listen to “Sun Gilded Clouds and the Angry Sea” by Brooke Kelly.
Award winning vocalist, pianist, composer and producer Fiona Ross has become known for creating her own contemporary Jazz sound using fast paced Latin Jazz, vintage jazz club and a little neo soul along with heart wrenching ballads that demonstrate that “Her style is poetic and the messages ooze with Millennial angst” (Jazz weekly).
She came to the world’s attention as “The artist that gave Ed Sheeran his ‘first push'” (Daily Express), but has very quickly established herself as an artist in her own right and has received incredible reviews across the globe for all of her four albums. Her live performances have seen her perform at prestigious venues including 606 Club, Pizza Express, Bulls Head, Nells Jazz and Blues and Toulouse Lautrec and her music is played on radio stations all over the world including 40 stations in the USA as well as in Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Australia, Netherlands and Spain.
Fiona has achieved many accolades for her most recent album, including Best Jazz Song from the World Songwriting Awards for her song ‘For My Dad’, Outstanding achievement awarded by the Global Music Awards and most recently International female songwriter of the year from the International Singer Songwriters Association. She has been featured in many publications including Tinnitist, Jazziz, Record World Magazine, Jazz Corner, Ink 19 and Jazz Quarterly and was thrilled to be in the top ten of most played videos recently in Tinnitist. Fiona’s song ‘Mistress’ which was recorded live in a stairwell, was selected to be included in the British Library archives for prosperity.
MT: Hello Fiona, how long have you been singing for and when did you know music was your calling and when did you figure out why you needed to pursue music as your career?
Fiona:Hi! Thank you so much for interviewing me. Ha, well, my Mum used to say I was singing before I could talk. But I never had that defining moment when I decided to work in the creative arts. It’s just what I have always done. I trained in dance and drama as well as music from a very age and in fact had my first professional job when I was about two and was working quite significantly from about the age of six, in theatre. I just don’t know any different. I guess my parents decided it was what I was supposed to do, but I never objected or questioned it. It’s just who I am.
MT: Who is your influence; why did you choose to sing jazz and what do you love about singing jazz?
Fiona:I have been surrounded by a whole range of musical influences all my life and there are so many to mention. My older brother was always listening to more rock based music and great songwriters which had a huge impact on my style – Eagles, Blondie, Kate Bush, Billy Joel, Joni Mitchell – my Mum was a huge opera fan and also wanted me to be the next Julie Andrews, ha. My Dad was all about old school Jazz – Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong. But also for me, my youth was full of Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Chaka Kahn, Aretha Franklin – all the power vocalists. I was also obsessed with Prince. Still am.
Jazz, for me, is about freedom. It allows me to write music that doesn’t have to fit into any boxes. There is room for a bit of everything. So, I can write some Latin Jazz, or something more soul influenced – I love the space it gives me to do whatever I want
MT: Who do you enjoy listening to as a fan?
Fiona:Again, so many I could mention, but, I listen to some Earth, Wind and Fire everyday without fail, they always put me in the right frame of mind – positivity. Michel Camilo and Hiromi are my heroes and I am huge fans of their work. I love finding new music and my work as a journalist allows me to meet and explore many artists and it’s quite wonderful!
MT: Your ‘Live Sessions’ in lockdown video album is divine; how long did it take to record the full video album?
Fiona:Thank you so much! It was so much fun. We recorded it during two sessions, so two days. The production side of it took much longer.
MT: I noticed that you wrote all the songs on the entire album; Do you collaborate with other writers and is there a personal favourite?
Fiona:Yes, I write all my own material, so haven’t collaborated with anyone yet. I’m sure I will at some point. I don’t have any favourites as such, but I enjoy different songs for different reasons. So, ‘Let Me Go’ is just fun to sing, and one my easier songs, vocally, whereas ‘The Evidence Suggests’ is really hard to sing and very emotional for me, so always a challenge, but in a good way. So, all the songs have different elements that mean something for me.
MT: Did you arrange all the songs for the band? If so, how do you do this; do you physically write each part for each musician, or how do you show your songs to your band to play?
Fiona:Yes, I arrange everything, apart from their solos of course. I do it differently based on what my musicians need. Everyone has a basic score, but then some prefer parts written out, and others, I will play or sing the parts and they notate it out in their way. I always like to give them whatever they need!
MT: When was your very first recording and release?
Fiona:As a Jazz Artist in my own right, it was A Twist of Blue a few years ago – 2016. I have been working as a session musician/composer etc for many years, but I have only been doing my Jazz thing for four years.
MT: Can you explain a little bit about your song-writing process?
Fiona:Of course. Well, I don’t have one process, other than, I write whatever is going on in my head at the time. So sometimes, a song will start with a bass line that I’ve come up with, and sometimes it might be a groove or a chord sequence – it varies all the time. Almost always music first and then lyrics as I’m going along
MT: As an independent artist, it looks and sounds like you have a great band; are they your regular musicians who you have beside you when performing at a live gig?
Fiona:Yes, I am so very lucky to work with some incredible musicians, live and on my albums. I have the occasional dep player, if there is a gig clash, as they all work for other artists as well, so scheduling can be tricky, but yes, I work with the same group of musicians all the time. It’s very important to me. The chemistry and our different backgrounds and influences is so wonderful.
MT: How long did it take to record your lockdown live video album and where was it recorded?
Fiona: I did two sessions, both in London. One was at St Cuthbert’s Church, which was a four hour session where we recorded 2 songs. The other was at The Premises Studio where we did 7 songs, over about 4 hours, although the setting up took a while.
MT: Covid 19 has proved an enormous challenge for artists in thinking outside the box and how to get ‘Out There’ so to speak. You have obviously taken this on with ease (or so it looks) with your live in lockdown album. What has been your frustrations and challenge during the pandemic?
Fiona: Ease? Ha, well it has been so very challenging for everyone – and still is. But you know, I am a very positive person – sometimes annoyingly I reckon – and I have always lived by three simple rules based on the quote by
Reinhold Niebuhr: Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
courage to change the things I can,
and wisdom to know the difference.
So with COVID, I cannot change that situation, so I haven’t felt frustrated as such, I’ve just tried to do what I can under the circumstances. I have had to accept that gigs were cancelled and goodness knows when they will return, so I’ve tried to do more online – with this live album for example. It also came at quite a good time for me, as I was supposed to be writing my next studio album, so I wasn’t supposed to be gigging a huge amount until January anyway, so this was helpful. My biggest concern was how to help others. So many of my friends suffering with no income and feeling very down, that has been the hardest thing. It has been just heart breaking.
MT: As a whole,what has been your biggest challenge in your music career so far? How did you overcome that obstacle?
Fiona: Well, for me, it’s never thinking I’m good enough. There are so many incredible artists out there and if I stop and think about it, I would just give up. So many of us just trying to do our thing and it can be very hard. I always get genuinely overwhelmed when people say nice things about my music, as for me, it’s never good enough. But the positive in that, is that it always drives me to be the best I can be and strive to be better – both as a human being and as an artist. I am not trying to be the ‘best’ artist, I am trying to be the best me I guess.
Interview With Hypnotic Soul Singer Amanda St John
MT: From what you have learned about your challenges in the music business, what advice would you like to give upcoming independent artists?
Fiona: Strength and resilience are key. Belief in yourself as an artist and what you are trying to achieve, no matter what people tell you. If you don’t fit in a box, embrace that rather than try to fit. Surround yourself with good people who care about not just your art, but you and your wellbeing. And always remember you are part of an amazing community – help and support each other, other artists – you are all in this together and it is not a competition.
MT: Besides singing, do you play any musical instruments? How long have you been playing them?
Fiona:Yes, I am also a pianist and started playing when I was six.
MT: What’s a typical day for you? Do you work on your music every day? What other activities or hobbies besides music do you like to do that your fans may like to know about?
Fiona:Well, before COVID, I would have said I don’t have a typical day, but I do have more of a routine for now at least. Yes, music everyday. I practice for four hours a day and at the moment I’m spending time on writing my next album. I also work as a Jazz journalist, so I’m often interviewing people or writing reviews. The business side of my music is time consuming – not fun, but has to be done. The continual self promotion is always a challenge for me, as I would far rather talk about other people, but it has to be done! The only thing I do that is not music, is Taekwondo and I read a lot.
MT: Thank you so much for your time Fiona, I really appreciate it and all the very best with ‘The Live Sessions Video Album’.
Interview With Jazz Sensation Fiona Ross
Interview With Jazz Sensation Fiona Ross
The Freakish Talent of Samuel Jacks Natural Soul Finesse
New Single from Powerhouse Vocalist Jacqine, It’s Never Been About Us
New Single from Powerhouse Vocalist Jacqine, It’s Never Been About Us
Jacqine brings her characteristic powerhouse vocals to new single ‘It’s Never Been About Us’. Cinematic in it’s sound with sweeping strings and flutes the song tells the story of an unrequited love. ‘It’s Never Been About Us’ came to life after Jacqine sat down at the keyboard having had the idea in her mind for a while. Teaming up with Craig Levy of Little Pioneer Cider House who added the drums and audio engineering, this new single is emotive and moving. A powerful ballad that leaves you wanting more.
With a distinct voice and a keen ear for instrumentation, New York based Jacqine has gained notoriety for her songwriting and performing. Having studied privately with Iris Marrus and Susan Windor she draws from Jazz, rock and pop influences to create a unique blend of sounds. She found success with a song she co-wrote that was licensed at the Cannes Film Festival in France in 13 countries and had the opportunity to work with Eric Kupper (Whitney Houston, Cher). She has gigged in multiple venues in New York City and has received support from Followme 876 radio (Spain), GSRN (Panama), David Snashfold UK Mixcloud, 90.5 Sirius XM, Jazz Juice Radio (UK), with her music being heard in over 40 countries thanks to the continued support from Radio Indie International (Italy).
My Energy Certain to Raise The Roof with Edward Knocks
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Boastful, insecure and sincere all at at the same time, ‘My Energy’ is the new single to come from new persona Edward Knocks. Lockdown forced Edward Knocks to put shallow and self serving projects on hold and instead gave him time to sit down with his favourite synthesisers, resulting in confident and bubbly ‘My Energy’. Describing an interview with LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy on failure as a turning point for the creation of this song, Edward Knocks faces down his insecurities in this bold new release.
Edward Knocks is a new persona for the artist who was previously signed to a label under a different name. Since leaving his record deal due to creative inertia and the feeling of being pushed into the wrong creative direction, he has found himself to be bursting at the seams with new creative ideas and relishes the new creative control he exerts over his own projects. Inspired by David Bowie, Kanye West and Frank Ocean, Edward Knocks keeps his artistic integrity and authenticity central to his sound.
Daisy Spratt released her 3rd studio single, and this one definitely pulls on our heart strings. Her 2019 release of “Think Again Boy” had attitude and grit, but “Thinkin’ Bout You” is all about emotive lyrics, and verges on a personal conversation with her listeners.
The 24-year-old, Melbourne, singer-songwriter has had a trying year, like all people, coming to terms with the new realities of COVID-19, and the personal strains it has brought on families.
The song was written with certain loved ones in mind, that have been battling depression and anxiety. Her music video contains many personal home-made videos of herself, and her family, from when she was a little girl, which only adds to the emotion of the track.
“I wanted to share a song that would really speak to people in this season. It has been a tough year, we have lost people, lost jobs, lost our sense of order and what was once our reality. People need to know that someone cares and is thinkin’ bout them. I hope people feel uplifted, and emotional, all at the same time, when they listen to it”, she says.
The independent artist has floated between country and pop over the years, but this new single verges on the edge of pop, and indie/alternative genres with a vocal to match and captivate the attention of all listeners.
If you love Matt Corby, Taylor Swift, Vance Joy, Gabrielle Aplin or Amy Shark, you’ll love this song.
For the release, she has reached out to mental health organisations in Australia. Beyond Blue is kindly allowing Daisy to share the song on their public Facebook profile, to reach over 600,000 people.
Hipster Conspiracy Comes In Full Force With Debut Album Dysphoria
Hipster Conspiracy comes in full force with her debut LP Dysphoria. With the incorporation of her masterful musical technique and urban styled vocals, this magnificent tracklist boasts a whole lot of talent. Each instrument is gradually plugged in throughout the 1 songs on the album, subtly adding layers that prove to be highly appealing with each listen being different. The songs perfectly captures the emotions and pain of Hipster Conspiracy’s struggle towards accepting her transgender identity, with mental issues, substance abuse and depression being part of her daily life during those years.
It feels like the album was so natural to create for Hipster Conspiracy, as it represents so well every aspect of her journey. Dysphoria captures the difficulty of being a transgender artist, even in 2020, and we cannot but support such a talent courageously sharing her story so that others don’t have to suffer the same pain in their lives. Be sure to keep an eye out for this Dark-Hip-Hop powerhouse’s next release.
Sensual and Sultry New Pop Music from Imogen Shute
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
The well known situation of right people wrong time is the inspiration for sensual new release ‘Just For A Second’ from Australian pop singer Imogen Shute. In the song Imogen imagines the ‘what if’ scenario, taking us into the fantasy with sultry vocals and a pulsating beat that guides us through the track like a heartbeat. ‘Just For A Second’ was recorded at Truth Studios in Victoria..
Using her unique style of singing to her advantage, Imogen Shute is a young pop singer from Australia who has recently moved to Melbourne to pursue her dreams of being a recording artist. With her first song being released earlier this year, Imogen Shute is going from strength to strength, finding confidence in her sound and image. Wanting her listeners to feel sexy and good about themselves when they listen to her music, she describes her sound as “seductive and moody”. Citing Halsey, Billie Eilish and Lana Del Ray as her influences, Imogen Shute is set for a big year.
Look Forward To Winter with New Indie Music from Gordon Holland
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
An expression of longing for winter mornings spent in bed with the one you love, ‘I’m Looking Forward to Winter’ is the latest single to come from Australian singer-songwriter Gordon Holland. Taking on a 70s singer-songwriter vibe, ‘I’m Looking Forward to Winter’ is the first song recorded with Gordon’s full band, giving this track a lush and warming feel to it. Inspired by time spent in his hometown of Perth and a holiday in California, the imagery reflects that comforting feeling of listening to the rain outside whilst you’re safe and warm inside. Written and demoed in the space of an hour, ‘I’m Looking Forward to Winter’ is filled with the raw spontaneity of a much needed writing session.
Originally from Perth, Gordon Holland now calls the musical shores of Melbourne home. Gordon recorded his debut single ‘Melbourne Bitter’ at a home studio in Laurel Canyon, Los Angeles with Luke Tierney (Silver Jet, Chris Shiflett & The Dead Peasants) mastered by Tom Beard (Deluxe Mastering). ‘Melbourne Bitter’ is a country-tinged song about self- confidence, disappointment and living away from family. He has also collaborated with Melbourne Singer-Songwriter Charlie Lane on her successful song ‘The Darkest Time’ which was featured on Spotify’s official Badass Women playlist. Gordon‘s single Melbourne Bitter went on to become a semi-finalist in the 2019 International Songwriting Competition. “a scintillating new single … a personal and bittersweet ode to the plight of a struggling musician.” – Walter Price – Global Texan Chronicles. Mixing up alt country with big choruses reminiscent of Britpop, Gordon Holland is confessional, nostalgic and humorous, with his music amplifying his life experiences in a way that resonates with his audience.
Artist Spotlight: Charmian Devi – “No Peace” – “Radio Of None”
Charmian Devi, Montreal-based singer-songwriter, enters this new decade with a new vision, releasing two out-of-the-ordinary singles, “No Peace” and “Radio of None.”
In touch with music since her youngest age thanks to having a father who was a fan of the 70’s most sought-after records by Bob Dylan, The Beatles, and all the legends that enriched the music scene back then, Charmian Devi naturally composes, creates, and writes .
Growing-up with this atmosphere surrounding her daily life, Charmian quickly picked-up music as her calling, and played in several bands, formed bands, and worked with the most respected musicians and artists throughout her long and fruitful journey.
This year, she released those two magnificent songs, produced by Marc Urselli in New York City, and recorded along very special musicians such as Bob Dylan’s bass player, Tony Garnier.
Artist Spotlight: Charmian Devi – “No Peace” – “Radio Of None”
Dylan Joseph’s New Single “City Dime” Brings A Maximum Dose Of Fun Vibes
Dylan Joseph, the American country music artist, is best known for the song he co-wrote for the show Malibu Surf, “Just Friends,” counting millions of views on YouTube. Today, he releases his most recent single, “City Dime,” blending rock-inspired soundscapes with country ones, and talking about a city girl who loves country boys. Despite having followed the way of life chosen for her by her family, she is attracted to country boys, and loves to spend good times with them.
Dylan Joseph has crafted something truly unique and special for “City Dime,” blending rock and country music in a beautifully fun and highly energizing way. We recommend this song for anyone who loves great music, and especially to the aficionados of rock and country music.
Following-up on “Closer To You” and “44,” both dropped earlier this year, “City Dime” is one more major drop by Dylan Joseph. Don’t miss it!
Interview With Hypnotic Soul Singer Amanda St John
Amanda St John is a soulful singer-songwriter from Northern Ireland. She is a mainstay on the Irish radio, festival and gig circuit and has been described as a “Head-turning vocalist with serious song writing prowess………a sensational artist” (Visit Dublin). She has worked with artists like Brian Kennedy, Eddi Reader, Mary Coughlan, Gareth Dunlop, Ciaran Gribbin (of INXS) and Jon Tiven (Grammy winning Nashville writer/producer whose CV has included BB King, Van Morrison and The Rolling Stones etc…).
After hearing Amanda’s voice, I had to find out more about her. Read the interview below and of course, take a listen to her music.
Enchanting, Beautiful & Delicate Music from Young Indie Artist, Sage
MT: Hello Amanda, nice to cyber meet you. Wow, what a voice! Your voice and style, inclusive of the BV’s, are reminiscent of the real soul music from the good ol’ days. Who did you grow up listening to?
Amanda:Hey there, and thanks so much for the feedback. I actually grew up listening to Irish folk music, it wasn’t until I was about 18 that I started listening to soul music. I heard Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s going On’ album and it blew my mind. I started exploring the classics then like Bill Withers, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Roberts Flack and was so moved by the power and expression of these artists.
MT: Having been the 1st Independent Irish artist to record in the ‘Fame’ studios in Alabama, can you share your experience and the differences recording there as opposed to other studios you had previously recorded?
Amanda:It was like a dream come true walking in those doors and standing in the same vocal booth with the same mics and same musicians as my heros. At one point I had this really overwhelming thought and was like “Aretha was here!” It was a very different experience than my 1st album as I took my time with that and recorded it over a 6 month period here in a studio in Northern Ireland (with producer Mike Mormecha). This album was all live tracked (bass, guitar, drums and keys) and we were really on the clock as we had just 5 days to record the whole album. I traveled there with co-writer/drummer/producer Mike Mormecha and co-writer/guitar player Paul Tierney and I hired 2 of the original ‘swampers’ session musicians to complete the band. It was an absolute joy to work with David Hood (Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Percy Sledge, Paul Simon, Alesha Keys etc.) and Clayton Ivey (James Brown, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Joss Stone etc) who welcomed us with open hearts and shared their wisdom and expertise so generously.
MT: Who do you now enjoy listening to as a fan?
Amanda:I’m listening to Gregory Porter, Lianne La Havas, Erika Badu and Leif Vollebekk a lot at the moment. I’m starting to write again for my next album so I’ve been revisiting classic songwriters like Joni Mitchel and Carole King for inspiration.
MT: When was your very first recording and release?
Amanda:I released my debut Ep ‘Where is The Man’ in 2012. I was late committing to myself and my music career to be honest.
MT: Your recent track of ‘Made Myself a Name’ indicates the struggles of trying to make it as a singer. Can you tell us what you find has been the most frustrating aspect of trying to make it in this business?
Amanda:The most frustrating part is getting your music to the right people. There are some playlists and DJ’s that I know my music would suit but without a budget for a radio plugger it’s difficult to reach these people. Finances are definitely the biggest struggle overall. It’s so expensive to produce good quality recordings, then you need a massive amount more for quality videos and promo material. I just wish a had a digital marketing budget too. Lol. Without big budgets everything just takes more time and you have to keep plugging away to build your fanbase organically.
MT: I believe you are a household name in Ireland, I apologise for not knowing you here in Australia, however, that will soon change ☺ Where are you based at the moment and where do you plan and hope to take your music?
Amanda:Lol, you’re very kind and I wish I was but like so many artists I’m still building my name here too. I do have a good following in certain circles though and I’m grateful for that. I am based in Co.Antrim in a small rural seaside village, it’s such a lovely place to live and create. Belfast is my closest city. I’ve been very lucky to tour across the Uk & Ireland and also in the USA the last few years. I’d love to take my music to the European market and festival scene now, though I’m open to anywhere that receives my music well.
MT: Can you explain a little bit about your song-writing process, who you have collaborated with and what it’s like to collaborate with such music royalty?
Amanda: I’ve been very lucky to write with some super talented Grammy award winning writers over the years but for this album most of it was written with my 2 main collaborators Paul Tierney and Mike Mormecha. I love collaborating as it helps bring a song to a new level when other writers add their ideas and creativity. It’s such a rewarding process to see an idea grow and take life.
MT: As an artist myself (way back), no matter how many releases you have, there is always excitement around each new release. Do you feel that each time you release something new, given the times we are in, (in regards to streaming and fans attempting to find new music); do you try and think of new ways/strategies with each new release?
Amanda:Yes it really is exciting but also very nerve wrecking. I write very autobiographically and these songs in particular are very raw emotionally in parts. It’s quite a vulnerable experience releasing your innermost thoughts and feelings into the world and sharing yourself at this level. The release strategy and business side of it is so important as every artist wants people to hear their music and reach press if you are to have any impact. I do find this the hardest part of things. Spotify and streaming has changed the game slightly too as it has really meant that music is more about numbers than sales these days. Everybody is literally learning to adapt and change to a very quick moving industry and figures suggest that less people are listening to albums so I released a lot more singles ahead of the full album this time to try and slowly increase fan base and listeners with each song. It’s all a bit trial and error to be honest but I am learning a lot.
MT: When you record, do you produce or arrange all the vocal parts, and do you naturally progress to the classic soul sounds of the likes of Aretha Franklin or Dusty Springfield; Is this a part of your nature and soul?
Amanda:That soul sound is very much at my core so I don’t have to think about it too much. I do all my own vocal parts and arrangements and a large majority if the backing vocal parts too. I actually had very severe vocal damage during production time and I had some good vocalist friends Matt McGinn and Siobhan Brown (who I’ve collaborated with a lot in the past and is so gifted at soul harmonies) who stepped in to help get the final bv parts recorded. I also love gospel choirs so had a small choir which I arranged parts for and led the recordings for a few songs.
MT: What has been your biggest challenge in your music career so far? How did you overcome that obstacle?
Amanda: I’ve had a lot of life challenges the last few years which make my music career hard to focus on and put me under immense pressure financially. During the production period with this album I lost a large amount of money when Pledge Music went bankrupt and I had a lot of time off earning due to caring for my father (who was terminally ill) and then soon after that the vocal damage I talked about. That was an extremely difficult period of life for me. I had just invested my life’s work into an album, was so broke I had no money to finish it and was told after 4 months of vocal treatment that the damage was so bad I might never sing again. I had so much work to do to heal and get back on my feet, and raise the funds I needed before I could release this album, it just makes me all the more proud though that I’ve finally got it out there into the world despite some very difficult obstacles.
MT: From what you have learned about your challenges in the music business, what advice would you like to give upcoming independent artists?
Amanda:Have a vision outside of success that you want to achieve and appreciate the small victories. You will get more rejections than successes but if you believe in yourself and that your music has a purpose then you will keep moving towards your goal even if it is taking longer than you hoped. Sometimes I get caught up in the business side of things and forget how far I’ve come as well as the joy of creating and touching audiences.
MT: Besides singing, do you play any musical instruments and How long have you been playing them?
Amanda:I have played guitar since I was a teenager, though I’m much more confident as the singer.
MT: What’s a typical day for you? Do you work on your music every day? What other activities or hobbies besides music do you like to do that your fans may like to know about?
Amanda: First and foremost I am a mum, I have a 12 year old daughter) who is my main focus in life. I also teach workshops on personal development, vocals and songwriting. I work with a lot of community and charity projects (mostly with teenagers) and am so committed to other people having belief in themselves and reaching their full potential. On my downtime I live by the beach and am very into nature and the outdoors.
MT: You have some major performances under your belt, including the prestigious Folk Alliance Festival, performing for the US president among many; Do you have any specific rituals or do anything specific before you head out on stage or even before you record your vocals in the studio?
Amanda:Yeah I do have to get into the zone and try to filter out all the nerves and inner noise. I usually do some vocal warm ups and deep breathing techniques to ground me and make me present to the moment.
MT: In these horrid times of Covid 19, what are your music plans for this year and how has this current climate affected you both musically and personally?
Amanda:My plans have obviously changed drastically due to Covid. I had to cancel my US, UK & Irish Album release tour as well as all my festival dates for the summer. I’ve had to completely restructure my plans and focus on reaching people digitally. I’ve been doing Facebook Lives as well as Zoom concerts and have been working hard on creating new digital content. It’s been a huge blow financially but so many people are in the same boat so I can’t complain, I’m just grateful to be healthy at this point.
Personally I’ve really enjoyed the slower pace of life and appreciate the extra time with my daughter. We’re lucky to live in the countryside and the weather has been great so I feel like I’m getting a chance to recharge my batteries after such a stressful couple of years.
MT: Thank you so much for your time Amanda, I really appreciate it.
Amanda St John Latest Release June 2020 – ‘Take A Leap’
Interview With Hypnotic Soul Singer Amanda St John
Interview With Hypnotic Soul Singer Amanda St John
The Freakish Talent of Samuel Jacks Natural Soul Finesse
The Star Prairie Project Releases Latest Coronavirus Inspired Single ‘Home of Hope’
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Get Some Peace Of Mind From The Ghostly Beard
Written as a mental health endeavour to cope with lockdown, ‘Home of Hope’ is the latest single to come from recording band The Star Prairie Project. Feeling overwhelmed by news stories filled with stress and anxiety, ‘Home of Hope’ is meant to act as an uplifting counter narrative, focused on keeping optimistic during this difficult time. Once again teaming up with LA producer and vocalist Rudiger (All American Rejects, Kinks) ‘Home of Hope’ is an upbeat Americana ballad.
‘The Star Prairie Project’ is a recording project set up by Nolen R. Chew Jr, a songwriter from Star Prairie Wisconsin, where the band take their name from. Collaborating with musicians from all over the world to bring his songs to life, The Star Prairie Project is solely a recording project and have been releasing music since 2018.
‘Home of Hope’ available on all major platforms
The Star Prairie Project Releases Latest Coronavirus Inspired Single ‘Home of Hope’
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Get Some Peace Of Mind From The Ghostly Beard
It’s been a while since we’ve heard from the Ghostly Beard and perhaps it’s times like these, in isolation, that inspire us to share, write about and explore what we’re doing and who we are.
It seems there are many of us are feeling vulnerable, lost and question what life is all about and those who come and go, but we all deserve some peace of mind.
Ghostly Beards latest song, ‘Peace Of Mind’ is exactly that. The lyrics reflected by the times in one’s life which don’t seem to be improving, hoping the warmth of the sun shining on your face will make it right.
Artists, singer, songwriters, soul searching to find themselves in normal times just to reach out and find someone who is willing to just listen and Ghostly Beard isn’t alone on this one.
I know in recent studies taken place in Australia, the most vulnerable to low mood and depression are those in the arts industry, and in these horrid times of isolation and quarantine, daily news on the lonely topic of Covid 19, we can’t deny, is having a huge impact on us all.
‘Peace Of Mind’ is a song obviously written from the heart and one in which I take my hat off too. It’s a song of questions and hope in amongst the darkness and a reminder, that we are not alone. Good one Ghost!
‘Peace Of Mind’ is released today 15th April
Female Fronted Rock Queens, High Grass Smashing New Single, Tonight
Morgan Joanel Shares a Slice of Seductive Alt-Pop with New Single ‘Disappear’
Icon The Great is Back For More with Tripper Remix
Fuelled by self-belief and a passion that itself is fuelled by talent and hard work, MorganJoanel is steadily building a creative empire that spans beyond her native art-form of music into visual and wearable art. An unbridled spirit, Morgan has been a creative force for the last decade Australia-wide and beyond, recently returning to her hometown of Perth to create her latest music release. Whilst her ride from independent to major label artist and back again has been a rollercoaster of big dreams and stifled creativity, the highs and lows have only strengthened her resolve and lifted her game to a world-class standard. Specialising in seductive alt-pop songs, this energy abounds on Morgan’s latest single, Disappear– marking the highest point of her storied music career.
Blessed with a smoky, honey-toned voice, Morgan’s music has always had an alluring quality, highlighted especially in her evocative live performances where live looping of layered harmonies, beats and guitars showcase her musical abilities. From a creatively frustrating experience signed to the world’s largest major label to the freedom and artistic limitlessness of her own independence, Morgan is merging both music and art into a multi-dimensional vision. The concept: a 5 track EP with visual artworks to expand on the music; was funded entirely by her widespread fanbase through a hugely successful Kickstarter.
Whether singing, songwriting, or creating artworks; her natural curiosity and strong worth ethic has always been at the centre of Morgan’s successes, and indeed her happiness. If the excellent standard of her work can be attributed to anything, it is this. Sometimes though, it is a bolt of lightning sent and received without effort or intervention. Lead single Disappear, as the perfect example, was written in 15 minutes… coming completely naturally as if to say the song wrote itself. Ending a bout of writer’s block, Disappear came just days before Morgan was scheduled to enter the studio, and was a much welcome sign of good things to come.
From traversing the USA working with Grammy-nominated producers, to hunkering down in Perth’s Blackbird Studios with the esteemed team of AdrianBreakspear (Gang Of Youths) and DaveParkin (Tired Lion, Abbe May) Morgan has experienced more of the music industry than most. Building on her live sound of intricate loops and rich husky vocal hooks, Disappear is undoubtedly the right move for Morgan as she proves herself the talent so many others have heralded her to be.
INTERVIEW with Nic Rollo; Just Focus On Improving Your Music
Nic Rollo would have to be one of the most talented artists I’ve seen of late. With super cool new music that’s incredibly catchy with the driving beat behind his latest single, ‘Monster’, showcasing his effortless vocals and producing skills with a sound that is new, yet familiar.
Hailing from Perth, Australia, why am I not surprised. As I’ve said before, there must be something in the water over in the west.
Rollo’s personal musical tastes include acts such as The Weeknd and Drake and shows determination and dedication to his art which is apparent throughout our interview.
Enchanting, Beautiful & Delicate Music from Young Indie Artist, Sage
MT: Hi Nic, how long have you been singing for and who are some of your musical influences? When did you know music was your calling and when did you figure out why you needed to pursue music as your career?
Nic:Hello hello. I’ve been singing since I was 15 and have been really focusing on improving for the past 2-3 years after getting a good vocal coach. It’s been those last few years that I’ve seen the most progress. Musical influence wise there’s quite a lot, ranging from Tears for Fears, Bonobo, The Weeknd, Drake, etc etc. I like to listen to as much music as I can to expand those musical horizons. Ever since I started getting into recording and producing I loved the idea of being a musician, and I think the further I got into it the more it became clear that this was what I was going to do with my life.
MT: Was it a conscious decision to pursue a music career or was it something you just loved, and fell into?
Nic: It was definitely just something I did a lot of as a hobby that started becoming more and more a pathway I wanted to pursue as a career. It was about halfway through my uni degree that I really decided I was going to commit to music after recording an EP that sounded better than anything I’d done before.
MT: Who do you enjoy listening to as a fan?
Nic:There’s a few, acts like The Weeknd and Drake have been huge inspirations of mine for the longest time. More recently I’ve been really enjoying Conan Gray and Kacey Musgraves. These questions are always tricky, I feel like I listen to new stuff every week so my favourite tracks are typically just that week/months findings.
MT: When was your very first recording and release?
Nic:Well there were a few tracks back from when I was 15 that I uploaded to my soundcloud and shared with my friends (it sucks). Here have a listen if you want to hear a poorly recorded, produced, written and mixed song from young Nic. Aside from those early attempts at music, I recorded a song with my previous band Deli Days (Time-Bomb, which is still on Spotify etc). It was super exciting going into a proper recording studio for that for the first time, and hearing back a polished song was amazing. I think those first few times will stay with me forever, there was something magical about it.
MT: Can you explain more about the meaning of the ‘Monster’ and how it ties into your music goals?
Nic:Monster is about saying things that you regret, essentially. It was written during a turbulent time in a previous relationship where it felt like I kept saying petty things that would slowly cause more and more conflict. The song is about trying to watch those inner demons. I guess Monster was one of the first songs that I started writing with more of a commercial sound in mind, not that it’s even that hifi. So I guess it stands as the starting point to a more refined sound from my music.
MT: Do you perform live? Where can people see you perform?
Nic: I do perform live, although I’ve been taking a break for the past few months to focus on other areas of music like writing songs. They can see me perform around Perth, and perhaps over East later in the year!
MT: I love how the video clip is shot, there looks to be a lot digging going on; how long did you have to dig for and how long did it take to shoot the video?
Nic:Thanks! Yeah there was certainly a fair amount of digging, although not as much as you might think for a human sized hole. I was probably only digging for 10 minutes to get it reasonably sized. The video itself was shot over 2 nights and probably took somewhere between 10-15 hours in total (including driving to scenes, setting up etc ec). It was a lot of fun!
MT: I see that you are also a producer, so I’m assuming you produced ‘Monster’; How did you begin producing and have you produced other artists’ tracks?
Nic:I sure did. Producing was never a conscious thought or decision to pursue, I’ve always done it ever since I started writing my own songs. Over the years (I like to think) I’ve honed the craft to a point where I’m pretty happy with it, although I actively try and improve all the time. At this stage I have not produced for other artists, but I’d love to at some point in the future!
MT: I see that ‘Monster was mastered by Chris Gehringer (Harry Styles, Rihanna and Halsey); what was the experience like working with a person of this calibre?
Nic:Mastering is a bit of a dark art, you send the track to them and they sort of magic it up and send it back. So in that sense I had very little contact with Chris, but he did a fantastic job. It’s cool working with people of such high calibres, largely because you don’t have to worry too much about if they’re doing a good or bad job (since they typically do a good job).
MT: What’s the best piece of advice that you have received in which you stand by?
Nic: It’s probably some iteration of ‘ be so good that they can’t ignore you’. I feel like in the music industry you really do have to be creating fantastic music to stand out, so that’s what I try to do. I’m not saying I’m fantastic, but that’s the goal one day.
MT: What has been your biggest challenge in your music career so far? How did you overcome that obstacle?
Nic:It’s probably just the resistance at times I’ve faced from other people in the Perth scene to get around the music I’m creating, both industry people and artists. I think back when I was starting I had this expectation of everyone jumping on board the Nic Rollo train and saying ‘wow this is incredible’, but obviously that didn’t happen (probably for good reasons). It was a good thing though, it forced me to focus and work harder on improving the music which I think is the most critical task anyway.
MT: From what you have learned about your challenges in the music business?
Nic:You just have to keep going and ignore the others around you. Everyone is on a different timeline/trajectory, so there’s often no point in comparing yourself to other artists who are doing well. I think the music industry is one of the industries that can be kind of fickle sometimes, so it’s a good strategy to just focus on improving your music as much as you can and hopefully the industry/scenes will get around it at some point.
MT: I saw on Instagram that you can cook up a pretty mean Chocolate cake! What’s a typical day for you? Do you work on your music every day? What other activities or hobbies besides music do you like to do that your fans may like to know about?
Nic:Hahaha thank you, it’s some of my finest work. A typical day often revolves around music, I’ll try to do a bit of writing/producing every day, as well as practicing instruments. Lately I’ve been teaching music lessons so that will often occupy a few hours in the afternoon. In terms of other hobbies, I spend a lot of time trying to craft social media content (lately the focus has been TikTok), so that can take up a disgusting amount of time sometimes. Aside from that I like hanging with my cat Tiggy.
MT: Just curious to know about your cat, Tiggy; What on earth is he lying in, were you preparing him for the ‘Monster’ clip or something? Lol
Nic:Tiggy is my favourite and least favourite creature on the planet. She’s amazing, but she also has a love of peeing on my bed occasionally which isn’t my favourite thing in the world. She’s probably lying in this big tunnel toy that I got her, she loves to play in it. Yeah… Monster is actually about Tiggy, she’s evil.
MT: Can you tell us why it took so long to release ‘Monster’?
Nic:I’ve been running on a timeline roughly a year ahead of schedule. I recorded an EP a few years ago, and an album at the start of last year. So when I started releasing the EP I was finishing the album. Monster was always going to be one of the first singles for the end of 2019 / beginning of 2020, and by the time I released it I’d been sitting on the song for pretty much a year. It was a little bit painful holding onto one of my favourite tracks for so long, but it was worth it.
MT: What are your music plans for 2020? Will we see an EP or Album?
Nic:Lots of releases! I’ve got a tonne of songs to release over the next few months, and an album that will hopefully drop by the end of this year or beginning of next year. I’m also looking forward to setting up a few collaborations with other artists this year, as well as ideally a bit of touring later in the year. All in all it’s looking to be a pretty exciting year.
MT: Thank you so much for your time Nic, wishing you all the best!
INTERVIEW with Nic Rollo; Just Focus On Improving Your Music
INTERVIEW with Nic Rollo; Just Focus On Improving Your Music
The Freakish Talent of Samuel Jacks Natural Soul Finesse
Beauty in Chaos and Curse Mackey Catapult Driving Gothic Rock Anthem ‘A Kind Cruelty’
The Sound Of Amongst Liars Are a Loud and Fierce Powerhouse
American alt-rock supergroup Beauty in Chaospresents their new single,‘A Kind Cruelty’ ft.Curse Mackey. This is a taster of Beauty in Chaos’ forthcoming full length album ‘The Storm Before The Calm’, to be released on May 22 via LA-based label 33.3 Music Collective. Recorded at Ciravolo’s own SAINTinLA Studio, it was produced by Michael Rozon, Grammy-nominated for his work with Ministry.
Beauty in Chaos is the brainchild of guitarist Michael Ciravolo. Originally from New Orleans and now based in Los Angeles, he is best known as President ofSchecter Guitar Research. He also played guitar in Human Drama for 30 years, in addition to playing live and recording with Michael Aston’s Gene Loves Jezebel since 1998.
“When Michael Rozon and I finished this music track, I was a bit of a loss for who I should approach about singing this one. Two different friends, Mark Thwaite (Peter Murphy/The Mission) and Steven Seibold (Hate Dept.) both suggested Curse Mackey. I didn’t think I knew him, but it turns out our paths had crossed in our ‘other lives’ in the musical instrument world. I thought his voice would be a great fit, and I especially liked his lyrical sense. We hit it off well and I really enjoyed working with him on this song and video, and I do look forward to evolving him in future BIC,” says Michael Ciravolo.
The accompanying video was filmed and directed by Vicente Cordero, edited by Leslie Gladney, and produced byIndustrialism Films.
“This is the ninth video we have done with Vicente Cordero and Industrialism Films. I certainly strive to make each one unique, as with BIC not being a band in the traditional sense, the videos are really our ‘face’. Since it is my goal to make this new album a bit darker than ‘finding beauty in chaos’, I felt ‘a kind cruelty’ really lent itself to going full-on darkwave. I wanted it to be dark yet fun … even with some tried and true imagery! It’s a bit tongue n’ cheek … or would that be teeth in skin?” asks Ciravolo.
Austin’sCurse Mackey is a prominent performer on the darkwave, post-punk and industrial music scenes. He is known for his prominent participation in PIGFACE and ongoing stints with My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult, plus past projects Evil Mothers and Grim Faeries. In 2019, Mackey released his debut solo album‘Instant Exorcism’, featuring an appearance by Ronny Moorings (Clan of Xymox)’. Mackey has also collaborated with such luminaries as Ogre (Skinny Puppy), Martin Atkins (Ministry/Killing Joke), En Esch (KMFDM), Genesis P-Orridge (Psychic TV), Danny Carey (Tool), and Mat Mitchell (Puscifer).
Mackey recently found himself in the spotlight while filling in for goth legend Peter Murphy in Orlando, who was unable to perform at the final 40 Years of Bauhaus Celebration show in Orlando. Invited byBauhaus / Love and Rockets bassist David J to stand in on vocals, they played to a sold-out Orlando audience, sowing the seeds for a new collaborative project between Mackey, David J and Rona Rougeheart of alt-electronic darlings SINE.
“When I first heard the instrumental, I was immediately captivated by the driving bassline and uplifting musical chorus. I was inspired by a PT Barnum quote referencing electricity and to “put a little of it into your blood and we will beat the world” – that was the literal spark that fueled the words. I magined being in the desert under the stars, conjuring the energy to face the world. I’m excited to be a part of the Beauty in Chaos project and to work with Michael and Tish. I admire them both as artists and entrepreneurs and to also be on a record with Wayne Hussey of The Mission, Seibold of Hate Dept. and the many other talented artists involved gives me a warm fuzzy feeling,” says Curse Mackey.
In 2018, Beauty in Chaos released their acclaimed debut album‘Finding Beauty in Chaos’, followed by the‘Beauty Re-Envisioned’ album (2019). Other BIC artists include Simon Gallup (The Cure), Al Jourgensen (Ministry), Robin Zander (Cheap Trick), Pete Parada (The Offspring), dUg Pinnick (Kings X), ICE-T (Body Count), producer Tim Palmer, guitar icon Zakk Wylde, Ashton Nyte (The Awakening), Kevin Haskins (Bauhaus, Love & Rockets), Rolan Bolan, Michael Anthony (Van Halen), Michael Aston (Gene Loves Jezebel), Paul Wiley (Marilyn Manson), Michael Aston and Dirk Doucette (Gene Loves Jezebel), Pando (A Flock of Seagulls), UMMAGMA, Evi Vine, Johnny Indovina (Human Drama), Danny Lohner (Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson), Betsy Martin (Caterwaul / Purr Machine), Kevin Kipnis (Purr Machine) and KITTY LECTRO, among others.
‘The Storm Before The Calm’ album will be released in late spring 2020 via33.3 Music Collective. The album will be available atwww.beautyinchaosmusic.com/music-store, as well as Bandcamp. Beginning March 6, Curse Mackey will be touring the USA with Clan of Xymox and Bellwether Syndicate.
CREDITS Curse Mackey – vocals Michael Ciravolo – guitars and textures Michael Rozon – bass, piano and synth Dirk Doucette – drums Lyrics written by Curse Mackey Music written by Michael Ciravolo and Michael Rozon Recorded, Mixed and Produced by Michael Rozon at SAINTinLA STUDIO Video filmed and Directed by Vicente Cordero (Industrialism Films) Video edited by Leslie Gladney (Industrialism Films) VIDEO BAND: Curse Mackey – vocals / Michael Ciravolo – guitar / Tish Ciravolo – bass / Dirk Doucette – drums / Leslie Gladney – vampire girl / Sinder and Lilian Sin – fire dancers
CURSE MACKEY TOUR(with Clan of Xymox & Bellwether Syndicate)
Mar 12 Austin, TX @ 3Ten ACL Live Mar 13 Dallas, TX @ Deep Ellum Art Co Mar 14 Houston, TX @ Numbers Mar 15 New Orleans, LA @ One Eyed Jacks Mar 16 Memphis, TN @ Growlers Mar 18 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade Mar 21 Austin, TX @ Valhalla (* solo show for SXSW)
Australian Indie Pop Artist Lili Kendall One To Watch
The Sound Of Amongst Liars Are a Loud and Fierce Powerhouse
Los Angeles-based Aussie artist and songwriter Lili Kendall is presenting the official music video for her single “i am my own.” Made in collaboration with feminist filmmaker/director Caroline Iaffaldano, the highly cinematic video revels in extravaganza and absurdity, following Lili through a trilogy of intergalactic travels.
Known for her kitschy and camp visuals, filmmaker Caroline Iaffaldano creates art that challenges the status quo and unravels certain societal standards applied to women. In the “i am my own” video, Lili voyages through the depth of the universe, experiencing love in several forms along her way before ultimately finding the truest form of love and expansion within herself. “Regardless of the planet or galaxy she ends up in, Lili lands in her own body and is able to receive herself in her limitless capacity she calls home,” Iaffaldano writes.
Lili Kendall wrote “i am my own” while trying to find comfort in a time of transition and doubt — her move from Brisbane, Australia to Los Angeles, California. Through self-exploration, Lili came to the realization that she can be her own home, her own temple, her own safe place, and her own familiar feeling. It’s about loving and honoring the relationship with self.
22-year old Lili Kendall is setting herself up to be a pop newcomer to watch. After rolling out a number of enchanting singles in 2019, Lili’s debut project, love, herself, is set to be released in early 2020. love, herself is a transformative and healing body of work that chronicles womanhood, self-empowerment, love, and life. ”I have found peace in the lyrics of these songs,” Lili writes, “writing this project has been how I processed and released all that I’ve encountered over the last two years. I hope listening to these songs has the same effect on people that they’ve had on me.”
Australian Indie Pop Artist Lili Kendall One To Watch
